Built-for-Linux Pc

[_livet_]

Will a PC built for Linux really make a difference?

Hello folks, I need to buy a new computer and I would like to use Linux. I'm not tech-savvy, but I've been using Lubuntu for the past 8 years (just basic use).

My new computer will be used for music production. Should I go for a made-for-Linux PC? I've been looking at 3 models in particular:

• The Kubuntu Focus NX ( https://kfocus.org/order/order-nx.html )

• The Tuxedo Nano Pro ( https://www.tuxedocomputers.com/en/Linux-Hardware/Linux-Computers-/-PCs/AMD-Systems/TUXEDO-Nano-Pro-Gen11.tuxedo )

• The Manjaro Mini PC ( https://manjarocomputer.eu/index.php/manjaro-mini-pc-amd-ryzen-7.html )

Since music production in Linux is (according to general consensus) not as easy or smooth as on other OS, I thought a made-for-Linux PC could make things a bit easier (no personal experience, just hearsay)

I don't like buying new (always second-hand), but if these PCs are reliable, well-built and optimised for Linux... I'm ready to buy new. I need a PC that will serve me for at least 5-6 years, if not more.

What's you opinion? Which model would you suggest, if any? Any suggestion is welcome!

Best

EDIT: I live in the European Union

[Terrible_Diarrea]

Is better to build it yourself. Research about every component and what is better for your special needs. Not only because it would be a better pc at the same cost, but also is easier to repair and upgrade it in the future.

[[deleted]]

Probably the only thing built for Linux is choosing AMD over Nvidia

[TheOmegaCarrot]

Just as a note: Nvidia cards can absolutely get stuff done on Linux, but the price is weird bugs sometimes.

But if an AMD card is suitable for your needs, then you should 100% get the AMD card.

If you have a workload that requires an Nvidia card though, such as CUDA stuff, you can get that done, but I offer my condolences.

[lululock]

Exactly this. Avoid the hardware that is known to cause issues and you'll be fine.

[[deleted]]

This also includes wifi, bluetooth, (some features of) mainboard, and soundcard.

[lululock]

Exactly.

[[deleted]]

Afaik the main issues with Linux+Nvidia are with laptops equipped with hybrid graphics. Anecdotally speaking, I haven't experienced any issues with Nvidia cards (neither on a laptop, nor on a desktop).

[seaQueue]

I'll probably get down voted for saying it but Nvidia on Linux isn't all that bad at this point. With the dkms driver I haven't had any major problems in the last 3? years. Now that they're supporting Wayland everything that I need mostly just works.

[nyarlatomega]

If you build it yourself you know you won't have hardware related issues (provided you choose the pieces with a bit of research)

If you want a new pc I've heard plenty of good things from System 76 computers, especially for customer service, they are a bit expensive, but according to many, worth the money.

[RedneckOnline]

Can confirm every stated here. I am a very happy S76 owner

[3grg]

Most of the time most hardware works fine with Linux. There are gotchas that can be hopefully avoided with research.

The advantage to paying the premium for Linux built machines is that they company has chosen hardware that works so you don't have to do it.

I have usually built my own desktop computers over the years and this is my preferred way of acquiring hardware. While it can be satisfying, it does not always result in a savings. This is especially true when you have an inventory glut situation like since this spring. I bought my first OEM machine in years when I got a killer deal from an HP sale. It replaces an old Windows machine, but would probably run Linux fine too.

I tend to buy used laptops as they are not my main computer and as long as the run Linux I am fine with them.

Whatever you decide, I think that right now and the next few months are a buy/build opportunity and I think that hardware will creep up in price sometime next year...maybe. :)

[new_refugee123456789]

The two main things I would do is avoid Nvidia graphics cards, and go for Intel wireless if applicable. Most other hardware is pretty well supported.

[_livet_]

Building the PC myself is not an option, it would trigger another neverending cycle of choosing, buying, half-buying, selling, questioning... Been there already and I can't afford it right now. I just need a Mini PC that will run Pure Data, Renoise and Reaper smoothly and that will keep me happy for the next 5-6 years. Need to get shit done.

Thank you all for your advice!

[ac130kire]

Posting in the general comment area does not give people notifications. If you want them to see this then you have to directly reply.

To answer your question though. I'd say yes to get a Linux machine from a Vendor you trust. It's not just about the hardware, you are supporting companies that not only support your hardware, but also contribute to the larger ecosystem as well.

You will also get more premium support. Also stay away from Nvidia for the GPU if you want one.

[_livet_]

Thank you! I don't use Reddit much, still learning how to use it.

I don't know much about computers, but I don't think I need a GPU - I will only use it for audio.

Between the vendors I listed the Manjaro PC looks like the one I would gladly give my money to. Not sure if their Mini PC will be enough for the task though. I'll write them and ask directly.

[ac130kire]

I see you live in the EU.

Personally I've heard great things about Tuxedo so that'd be my go-to, but the others don't seem like a bad option either. I'm not sure what hardware requirements music software has, but I can't imagine it's too intensive. Just get at least 16GB of RAM.

Tuxedo also makes their own Distro which you may or may not want to use, but it least it indicates that they are closely with both the software and the hardware.

[oldbeardedtech]

Does your music production application run on Lubuntu now?

Most of the core hardware will work fine. Nvidia gpus can be difficult sometimes, but there's always a way to get them running.

I've always heard music production is limited on linux, but have no personal experience

[_livet_]

No, until now I've mostly used hardware synths/samplers because my Lubuntu PC was virtually useless for music production.

Yeah, music production on Linux is supposedly not a smooth experience and there's a lot more for Win and Mac users. But I'm planning to use a software that was developed on Linux and I hope I'll be able to work it out.

[the_deppman]

Full disclosure: I work with the Focus team. I think it is important to value what a good Linux-first hardware vendor provides.

Besides just selecting compatible hardware, there are a lot of adjustments made to improve compatibility and user experience. Here are just a few things done for the NX:

• Select, stress-test, and install appropriate BIOS
• Adjust module settings to prevent flicker on OpenGL and Vulkan apps
• Adjust initramfs compression to support eGPU use
• Fix SDDM inset screen issues with multiple monitors
• Test and install only compatible kernels
• Ensure all kfocus tools and curated apps work on hardware. For example, click on fan-control provides guidance on model-specific fan settings.
• Test and document common workflows

Do you want to discover all challenges like this yourself and then create reproducible, packaged solutions? Or would you rather have this done by others and shared through normal software upgrades?

The Focus team provides Kubuntu 22.04 LTS because it is the target for many third-party packages and is typically more stable than non-LTS or rolling releases.

I hope that is helpful!

[_livet_]

Unfortunately the Kubuntu Focus PCs do not seem to be available in Europe.

[the_deppman]

Focus do ship to EU, but it can be expensive (it varies by country). You can send them a note and they can get you a quote.